Commissioner was found guilty of tax evasion

Cook County Democratic leaders are scheduled to meet Thursday to pick a replacement for Commissioner William Beavers, who was convicted last month of federal tax evasion.

Ald. Howard Brookins will lead the meeting at which Democratic committeemen will decide who will finish Beavers’ unexpired county board term based on the weighted votes cast in the district in the 2010 commissioner election.

Brookins, whose 21st Ward cast the most weighted votes, said at least six candidates submitted resumes.

Among the contenders, Stanley Moore is considered a leading candidate for the post. Moore unsuccessfully sought a seat in the Illinois House in 2008.

Other hopefuls include Kenneth Sawyer, nephew of former Chicago mayor Eugene Sawyer; Brian Sleet, chief of staff to Ald. Roderick Sawyer; and Nick Smith, an aide to 9th Ward Ald. Anthony Beale. Brookins said former county board president Todd Stroger decided not to seek the post.